"Like Canute, we can't control water, but JORVIK Viking Festival plans going ahead full speed!"

15 – 21 February 2016

Whether they were fighting Anglo Saxons or the turbulent waters of the North Sea, there was little that would stop the Vikings from achieving their goals, and this Norse spirit is set to be carried on in York for this year’s JORVIK Viking Festival, which will take place from 15 – 21 February 2016 despite the flooding that has closed the world-famous JORVIK Viking Centre.

“When we decided to focus the theme for the 2016 on the 1000thanniversary of Canute taking the throne of England, little did we realise that we’d have our own moment of standing with water lapping at our feet, commanding it to stop its flow, but that’s what happened – and just like Canute, the water continued to rise within the attraction despite our best efforts,” comments Sarah Maltby, director of attractions for York Archaeological Trust.  “However, a visit to the JORVIK Viking Centre was only part of the Festival experience, and with our other attractions and the majority of venues remaining dry throughout the recent flooding, we’ll continue to welcome the Viking invaders this February, and hope that the next flood we experience will be one of Viking enthusiasts congregating in the city from 15 – 21 February.”

Organisers are working with venues around the city – some of which were also affected by flooding – to ensure that the vast majority of events, including the grand fiery finale, continue as planned, albeit the location may change for some of the smaller events.  “All of our outdoor locations are now clear of flood water, but we may need to relocate some of our have-a-go events and talks to other venues in the city centre,” explains Sarah.

Full details of this year’s JORVIK Viking Festival are available on the dedicated website, www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk, with venues updated on line as plans are confirmed.

ENDS

Highlights of the 2016 JORVIK Viking Festival can be found here:

http://news.cision.com/jorvik-viking-festival

For further media information or photographs, please contact:

Jay Commins

Pyper York Limited

Tel:         01904 500698

Email:    jay@pyperyork.co.uk